Synonym Discussion of DEFEND

defend, protect, shield, guard, safeguard mean to keep secure from danger or against attack. defend denotes warding off actual or threatened attack <defend the country>. protect implies the use of something (as a covering) as a bar to the admission or impact of what may attack or injure <a hard hat to protect your head>. shield suggests protective intervention in imminent danger or actual attack <shielded her eyes from the sun with her hand>. guard implies protecting with vigilance and force against expected danger <White House entrances are well guarded>. safeguard implies taking precautionary protective measures against merely possible danger <our civil liberties must be safeguarded>.

defend

Definition of DEFEND for Kids

1

: to protect from danger or attack

2

: to act or speak in favor of when others are opposed <She defended her teacher against the class's complaints.>

Synonym Discussion of DEFEND

defend, protect, and safeguard mean to keep safe. defend is used for a danger or an attack that is actual or threatening. <The soldiers defended the fort against enemy troops.>protect is used when some kind of shield can prevent possible attack or injury. <Protect your eyes with dark glasses.>safeguard is used when a course of action can protect against a possible danger. <The health rules help safeguard the students from disease.>